3. Linda Ronstadt, “You’re No Good”

Written by Clint Ballard Jr., the song was originally recorded by Betty Everett in 1963 and reached No. 51 on the Billboard Hot 100 — but it was Linda’s powerful 1975 version that catapulted this song to No. 1.

Quintessential breakup lyrics: “Feeling better ‘cause I’m over you / I learned my lesson, it left a scar.”

7. Joni Mitchell, “River”

Following a difficult breakup with musician Graham Nash, Joni penned the essential breakup albumBlue, and while any track from that album could work on this list, “River” beautifully captures the emotion of reflecting on a past relationship during the holidays.

8. Bob Dylan, “If You See Her, Say Hello”

Easily the most heartbreaking track from Bob Dylan’s essential breakup albumBlood on the Tracks, “If You See Her, Say Hello” is about being happy for your ex for moving on, even when you are still deeply wounded inside.

Quintessential breakup lyrics: “If you get close to her, kiss her once for me /
I always have respected her for busting out and gettin’ free / Oh, whatever makes her happy, I won’t stand in the way.”

10. The Carpenters, “Superstar”

The Carpenters’ version of “Superstar” peaked on at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 (it was unable to claim the top spot due to the success of Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May”) and is considered one of their signature songs. Reportedly, Karen Carpenter did her beautifully haunting vocals all on the first take.

Quintessential breakup lyrics: “Loneliness is such a sad affair / And I can hardly wait to be with you again / What to say to make you come again?”

18. Fleetwood Mac, “Silver Springs”

Written by Stevie Nicks after her breakup with Lindsey Buckingham, “Silver Springs” (originally intended for the album Rumours) is a slow burn of a song, about the difficulty in trying to forget someone you loved so deeply.

Quintessential breakup lyrics: “Time cast a spell on you, but you won’t forget me / I know I could have loved you, but you would not let me.”